Brand new hybrid tech from Toyota will deliver 1000km of driving range on 2025 Subaru Forester and 2025 Crosstrek off-road SUVs

At long last Subaru has unveiled its new hybrid powertrain.

Born out of the alliance agreement between Toyota and Mazda, this 'strong' hybrid differs from Subaru's previous e-boxer mild-hybrid and will be equipped on incoming 2025 Subaru Crosstrek and Forester models.

It comprises a bigger 2.5-litre Subaru ‘Boxer’ horizontally-opposed petrol engine and two electric motors. One is a motor generator and the other a traction motor capable of outputting 88kW.

There is a new 1.1kWh lithium-ion battery, nearly double the size of the previous 0.6kWh unit, stowed under the cargo floor while the power control unit has migrated to the engine, allowing for the fuel tank to swell from 48 to 63 litres.

The entire configuration will deliver a combined output of 206kW/479Nm, while Subaru claims a driving range of more than 1000km, making it the longest-cruising Subaru ever.

Unlike the AWD Toyota RAV4 hybrid with its separate, less powerful rear motor, Subaru maintains the Crosstrek and Forester's symmetrical AWD system by mechanically coupling the front and rear wheels via a propeller shaft.

Local pricing is yet to be confirmed, though it's safe to assume it will welcome an additional premium of a few thousand dollars on current Crosstrek and Forester offerings.

The new powertrain should shore up sales of Subaru’s popular Crosstrek model, which was released on its third-generation platform in 2022. It is currently the fifth-best selling small SUV in Australia and Subaru’s second most popular model.

The title of Subaru’s best-selling model is reserved for the Forester, which has been earmarked for a major cosmetic update in 2025 in addition to the new powertrain.

Based on the US version, we already know the Forester will add exterior design highlights such as a new-look front grille, headlights, tail-lights and redesigned alloy wheels.

It also gets a bigger 11.6-inch multimedia touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a new power steering rack similar to what is used in the Subaru WRX, as well as optional extras like a power tailgate.

Subaru is yet to confirm exactly when the new Forester or the hybrid Crosstrek will arrive in Australia, but we do know it will be some time next year.

CarsGuide has contacted Subaru Australia for further information on a potential arrival date.